Sarasota's 20+ Must-Attend Events this November 2023

Welcome to the sunny shores of Sarasota, where November 2023 is shaping up to be an exciting month full of events and activities! From festivals to food trucks and parades, there's no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city and its neighboring areas of Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton. So mark your calendars and get ready to explore all that Sarasota has to offer this November 2023! In this blog post, we'll highlight some must-attend events that you won't want to miss. Let's dive in!

Music on Main

November 3rd, 6pm-9pm | Lakewood Ranch Main Street

Music on Main is a must-attend event this November 2023! This monthly free concert series and block party is the perfect way to enjoy an evening out in Sarasota. With local food vendors, beer trucks, sponsor booths, and games and activities for kids, there's something for everyone to enjoy. What's even better is that proceeds from the event go to a different local non-profit organization each month, so you can have fun while supporting a good cause. This November, get ready to dance to the Southern rock grooves of The Black Snake Bayou Band and help benefit Streets of Paradise. It's one of the many things to do in Sarasota this November 2023!

19th Annual Dia De Los Muertos: Festival Of The Skeletons

November 3rd-4th, Hours Vary | Village of the Arts, Bradenton

Get ready for a vibrant and exhilarating celebration at the 19th Annual Dia De Los Muertos: Festival Of The Skeletons in Bradenton! Taking place on Friday, Nov. 3rd, from 6pm to 9:30pm and Saturday, Nov. 4th, from 11am – 4pm, this event is bursting with color, energy, and excitement. Wander through the galleries throughout the Village and admire the shrines and altars dedicated to honoring loved ones. Don't miss the special Community Shrine dedicated to Frida Kahlo, as well as the Memory Wall where you can remember your own cherished ones.

Join in on the fun and wear your Día de los Muertos costumes for a chance to win the costume contest! Indulge in authentic Mexican delicacies and enjoy live musical performances. Plus, be amazed by the cultural performances by Manatee County Schools. Don't miss out on being a part of the rich tapestry of traditions and festivities at the 19th Annual Dia De Los Muertos: Festival Of The Skeletons!

Sarasota Boat Expo

November 3rd-5th, Hours Vary | Robarts Arena

Looking for things to do in Sarasota this November 2023? Don't miss the Sarasota Boat Expo, where you'll find over 100 boats on display! Whether you're a boat enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, this event is a must-see. Admission is $6 for ages 13 and older, while children 12 and under can enter for free. Tickets are available at the door, so you can easily join in on the excitement. The expo is open from 10am-6pm on Friday and Saturday, and 10am-5pm on Sunday. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the world of boating in Sarasota!

Sahib Shrine Circus and Family Festival

November 3rd-5th, Hours Vary | Sahib Shrine Event Center

Looking for some family-friendly fun this November in Sarasota? Look no further than the Sahib Shrine Circus and Family Festival! This event has it all - elephant, pony, and camel rides, bounce houses, delicious food, exciting games, amazing prizes, and a human cannonball! You can even come early for a meet and greet with Okha the Elephant. The festival opens at 2pm on Friday and at noon on Saturday and Sunday, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy all the activities. Don't forget to check out the circus showtimes on their website for an unforgettable experience!

22nd Annual Ferraris on the Circle

November 4th, 9am-3pm | St Armands Circle

Get ready to rev your engines at the 22nd Annual Ferraris on the Circle! Taking place at St. Armands Circle Park, this event is a car enthusiast's dream come true. Stroll through the park while enjoying Ferraris of all ages on display. Plus, it's completely free!

If you're a proud Ferrari owner, a minimum donation of $50 is requested to show your car. Don't worry, it's for a good cause - all proceeds benefit Flight to the North Pole, a charity that brings joy to children during the holiday season. For more information or to register, contact Joe Gliksman at joegnsx@gmail.com or 863-860-1053.

Celebrity Softball Game & Rodney Atkins Concert

November 4th, 4pm | CoolToday Park

Don't miss out on the star-studded event of the season - the Celebrity Softball Game & Rodney Atkins Concert! This action-packed event features two teams comprised of celebrities from the world of music, television, and professional sports, as well as local Active-Duty Military Personnel and/or Military Veterans and First Responders. After the game, get ready to sing along to hit country songs by the one and only Rodney Atkins during a live concert on the field. Not only will you have a blast, but you'll also be supporting a great cause, as 100% of the proceeds from this event go towards programs and services that directly help our heroes. This year, one of the highlight organizations benefiting from the event is My Warriors Place. So grab your tickets, which include admission to both the game and concert, and get ready for an unforgettable night!

19th annual Sarasota Medieval Fair

Every Saturday & Sunday in November, 10am-5:30pm | The Woods of Mallaranny

The Sarasota Medieval Fair has been a beloved annual tradition since 2005, and this November, it's back with a bang at its new home, the Woods of Mallaranny! Immerse yourself in the world of knights, kings, and queens as you step into a rustic cultural and ceremonial reenactment celebrating the history of our European ancestors. Interact with the cast of characters, cheer on equestrian tournaments, and marvel at the demonstrations of traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, and jewelry making. This family-friendly fair also offers farming technique demonstrations, children's activities, and a wide array of local artisans, performers, and vendors. Join in on the festivities and support non-profit organizations while having a blast!

14th Annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpting Competition

November 10th-13th, Hours Vary | Siesta Key 

Get ready to be amazed at the 14th Annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpting Competition! This incredible event brings together 24 talented artists who compete to create stunning sculptures out of sand. From a large community carve to eight solo sculptures and eight team sculptures, there's something for everyone to admire. Don't miss the opportunity to see the sculptures under colored lights on Saturday evening after sunset. The competition is timed and judged, with winners announced on Sunday afternoon. Plus, you can vote for your favorite sculpture until Monday at 5 PM using wooden tokens available for purchase.

Siesta Key, voted America's #1 Beach, is a favorite among professional sand sculptors, making this competition truly exceptional. Explore the Vendor Village with over 80 retail vendors and five food trailers, or head to the Barefoot Beach Bar Party Tent for music and a full bar with no entry fee. And be sure to check out the other attractions at the festival, including sand sculpting lessons and demonstrations, live bands, a speed and skill contest, and an Amateur Competition on Saturday. Don't miss out on this spectacular event!

Anna Maria’s Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade

November 10th, 9am | Pine Avenue, Anna Maria Island

Join the patriotic celebration at Anna Maria's Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade this November 2023! This heartfelt event pays tribute to our brave veterans and their service to our country. The parade kicks off at 9am from Anna Maria City Hall and proceeds down Pine Avenue, ending at City Pier Park. Be sure to grab a good spot along the route to cheer on the participants and show your support. After the parade, stick around for a short ceremony honoring our veterans. It's a wonderful way to come together as a community and express our gratitude for their sacrifice. Don't miss out on this special event!

Sarasota Annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony

November 11th, 10am | Downtown Sarasota

Don't miss the Sarasota Annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony on November 11th! This patriotic event takes place on Osprey Avenue/Main Street in downtown Sarasota, FL. The parade features veterans groups, community organizations, and local dignitaries, as well as marching bands and antique military vehicles. Make sure to be there early to honor the two local World War II veterans who will be leading the parade. After the parade, head over to J.D. Hamel Park for a moving ceremony at 11:00 a.m. Let's come together as a community to honor and show our gratitude to our brave veterans!

Suncoast's Largest Food Truck Festival 4.0

November 11th, 12pm-9pm | The Mall at UTC, Parking Lot 4

Suncoast's Largest Food Truck Festival is back in Sarasota for the fourth time on Saturday, November 11th! It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate Veteran's Day and Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC. With over 70 food vendors, you'll have plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. The festival will run from 12pm-9pm for food trucks, and from 6pm-10pm for the holiday parade, fireworks, and an exciting after-party. There's also free parking and entry, so gather your friends and family for a day filled with delicious food and festive fun!

Santa’s Grand Arrival Parade at UTC

November 11th, 6pm-10pm | The Mall at UTC, Cattleman Road

Get ready for the 7th annual Santa's Grand Arrival Parade at UTC, the perfect festive kick-off to the 2023 holiday season! Cattleman Road in front of The Mall at UTC will be closed for the parade, so you won't miss a single moment of the fun. The event begins with a Veteran's Day observance ceremony and ends with a tree-lighting performance and a spectacular fireworks show. But the excitement doesn't stop there - stick around for the after-party, featuring a surprise concert, delicious food, and entertaining activities for all ages. The parade route will take Santa and his crew north on Cattleman Road from the Desoto Road roundabout to the traffic light on University. You won't want to miss this joyful celebration that marks the start of the holiday season in Sarasota!

21st Annual Suncoast Food & Wine Fest

November 11th, 1pm-4pm | Premier Sports Campus

The 21st Annual Suncoast Food & Wine Fest is the culinary event of the year in Lakewood Ranch! Set to take place on Saturday, November 11th, this festival will delight your taste buds with samplings and tastings from the area's finest restaurants. Indulge in a variety of fine wines and other beverages while enjoying live music and entertainment. Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance, as they are not sold at the gate. By participating in this event, you'll be supporting local charitable organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Don't miss out on this delicious and charitable event!

5th Annual SRQ Craft Beer Festival

November 12th, 12pm-4pm | Original Craft Beer and Pizza Cafe

Get ready to raise your glass and toast to the 5th Annual SRQ Craft Beer Festival! This event is a celebration of all things craft beer and is perfect for beer enthusiasts of all levels. With live music throughout the day, you can sip on your favorite brews while enjoying great tunes. For just $25 admission, you'll have access to exclusive tastings from a variety of breweries, including Calusa, Big Top, Funky Buddha, Islamorada, Kona, and many more. Don't miss out on this hoppy and flavorful event - mark your calendars and join us for a day of beer-tasting fun!

Gamble Creek Farm's Harvest Festival

November 18th, 9am-12pm | Gamble Creek Farms

Experience the excitement at Gamble Creek Farm's Harvest Festival in Parrish, FL and celebrate the season with your family! This festive event is packed with live music, family games, photo opportunities, delicious food, and endless fun. Don't forget to treat yourself to one of the scrumptious Anna Maria Bake House pies available for purchase at the festival - the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast. So mark your calendars and make sure to attend this fantastic event, happening just in time to kick off the holiday season!

Sarasota Fall Fine Art Festival

November 18th-19th, 10am-5pm | JD Hamel Park

The Sarasota Fall Fine Art Festival is back for its tenth season! This exciting event showcases original, handmade arts and fine crafts that are perfect for collectors or enhancing your home or office decor. Taking place in downtown Sarasota at JD Hamel Park with free admission, this festival features a diverse array of artwork from local, regional, and national artisans. Explore mediums such as painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, glass, ceramics, fiber, wearable art, mixed media, and woodworking. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art!

Grilled Cheese Festival

November 18th, 11am-6pm | CoolToday Park

Get ready to indulge in a cheesy extravaganza at the CoolToday Park's Grilled Cheese Festival! This mouthwatering event is a must-attend for all cheese lovers. Picture yourself savoring gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches from a variety of food trucks, while enjoying live music and sipping on refreshing beverages from the beer garden. Plus, there will be plenty of fun activities for the kids! But that's not all - there will be even more delicious surprises and cheesy delights at this festival. Don't miss out on this cheesy paradise!

Holidays in Paradise 2023 & Light Up Bradenton Beach

November 18th, 5:30pm | Bradenton Beach’s Historic Business District

Get ready for a night full of holiday magic at the Lighting of the Christmas Tree in Bradenton Beach this November 2023! This enchanting event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Join in on the caroling, sip on delicious cocoa, and get your picture taken with Santa. The kids will love the face painting, and everyone will enjoy watching “Elf” under the twinkling lights. Don't miss out on this festive celebration that will leave you feeling merry and bright!

6th Annual Florida Turkey Trot

November 23rd, 8am | Nathan Benderson Park

Don't miss out on Sarasota's newest Thanksgiving tradition - the 6th Annual Florida Turkey Trot! Lace up your running shoes and join nearly 4,000 participants for this exciting 5K run/walk. The race starts at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, with a Kids Dash at 7:15 a.m. All participants will receive a finisher medal, and the top 100 male and 100 female finishers will be awarded a special Thanksgiving-themed prize at the post-race party. Entry fees range from $20 to $35, so grab your spot and make this race part of your holiday tradition!

Sarasota Food Truck Rally & Music Festival

November 24th-26th, Hours Vary | JD Hamel Park

Get ready for a mouthwatering and music-filled weekend at the Sarasota Food Truck Rally & Music Festival at J.D. Hamel Park! Stop by Friday, November 24th from 4pm to 10pm, Saturday, November 25th from 11am to 10pm, and Sunday, November 26th from 11am to 6pm for a culinary adventure like no other. With a diverse selection of food trucks offering a variety of culinary options, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. And that's not all! The festival will also feature a Music Festival with local musicians playing a mix of genres to keep you entertained while you enjoy your delicious food. Bring your family and friends and join us for a weekend of food, music, and community spirit. Don't forget to explore the marketplace where you can find unique arts, crafts, and specialty products!

38th Annual Light Up Siesta Key & Village Holiday Parade

November 25th, 5pm-9pm | Siesta Key

Get ready for a magical evening at the 38th Annual Light Up Siesta Key & Village Holiday Parade on Saturday, November 25th! The parade kicks off at 5:30 pm, starting at Avenida del Mare and Beach Road, and traveling north on Beach Road onto Ocean Boulevard into the Village. You can expect to see local businesses and groups participating in the parade, all coming together to welcome Santa to Siesta Key Village.

After the parade, Santa will make his way to the Siesta Center, where he will greet children and take photos with them for free. The first 250 kids will even receive gift bags! Plus, free public transportation will be provided by the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley between Turtle Beach and Siesta Key Village, with multiple stops along the route including Siesta Beach. Don't miss out on this festive event that will light up Siesta Key with holiday cheer!

Downtown Sarasota’s Enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting

November 30th, 6pm-8pm | Selby Five Points Park

Downtown Sarasota’s Enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting is a magical evening of joy, music, and festive lights! Taking place at Selby Five Points Park in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, the park transforms into a holiday haven. The centerpiece of the event is a dazzling Christmas Tree that will leave you in awe. Join the community on November 30th for a night of enchantment and holiday cheer. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event!

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In a city as vibrant and diverse as Sarasota, November 2023 is set to be an unforgettable month. From music festivals to parades, food truck rallies to art festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a music lover, a foodie, a car enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, Sarasota has it all. So mark your calendars and make sure to experience these must-attend events. It's going to be a November to remember in Sarasota!